Gogglebox star to leave show to stand for Ukip in general election

http://www.theguardian.com/media/2014/dec/18/gogglebox-star-leave-show-stand-ukip-general-election

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Channel 4 hit Gogglebox is to lose one of its families after the father revealed his intention to stand for Ukip in the general election.

Andrew Michael, 55, his wife Carolyne, 53, and children Louis, 17, and Alex, 24, will no longer appear on the series in which cameras film viewers as they watch TV.

A spokeswoman for Channel 4 said: “It’s with great regret that the Michaels are no longer in the show.

“Sadly any Gogglebox cast member who becomes a candidate for a political party will have to step down from their involvement in Gogglebox.”

She added: “They have been excellent contributors to Gogglebox, and we are very grateful for all they have given to the show.”

The family tweeted to say that they were very sad to not be on the show last week, after newspaper reports suggested Mr Michael had been picked to contest the Hastings and Rye seat.

The Gilbey family were axed in August after son George signed up for Celebrity Big Brother.

But Dom Parker is continuing while also joining Channel 4 show The Jump.

Carolyne Michael said the family were sad to be leaving the show.

“It’s with great sadness that we must say goodbye to the wonderful Gogglebox family. Andy entering politics so can no longer stay with it,” she wrote on Twitter.

“We’ve loved every minute of our involvement. It’s the best show on TV and I want to thank everyone for their wonderful support. We’ll miss you.

“Wishing everyone a very Happy Christmas and a Happy New Year with love and all our heartfelt thanks from all the Michael family.”